Three Common Causes of Facial Paralysis in Adults

If you are suffering from any kind of facial paralysis, it is important to seek medical advice. While some health conditions that produce such symptoms are easily treatable, others may require a more complex medical intervention.

Bell’s Palsy

The most common cause of facial paralysis in the U.S. is known as Bell’s palsy. This condition affects as many as 40,000 people each year. Facial paralysis typically develops rapidly and without obvious cause, although Bell’s palsy is more prevalent in pregnancy and those suffering from diabetes.

Tumors

The nerves that control the face may suffer disruption or damage due to tumors. In most cases, invasive carcinomas, acoustic neuroma, schwannoma and cholesteatoma are responsible for these complications. If facial paralysis persists for several weeks, you may need interventional treatment.

Viruses

Varicella-zoster, herpes simplex and Epstein-Barr (EBV) are just some of the viruses that can result in facial paralysis. If you have ever suffered from ear infection, there is an inherent risk of complications that can impact your facial nerves.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a tick-borne infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It takes between 24-36 hours of attachment for a tick to spread infection to humans. You are more likely to have encountered the tick responsible for Lyme Disease in Long Island, upstate New York or when visiting another state.

Facial Trauma

Injuries to the face from blunt force trauma or cutting can damage the nerves that control facial expressions. It is possible to undo the damage with surgery in many cases. Accident victims may need a combination of surgeries to repair damage from injuries and restore facial movement.

Facial Paralysis Diagnosis & Treatment

Turn to New York Facial Paralysis for treatment, whether you know the cause of your condition or not. We specialize in offering solutions that can restore symmetry and function to the facial features. Our team can also provide diagnosis of many underlying conditions or make necessary referrals.

If you are suffering from the effects of facial paralysis, reach out to our New York City offices today for compassionate and effective treatment.